The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sought deeper collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State as part of efforts to curb the rising threat of drug imitation, adulteration, and other regulatory violations in the state.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the Gombe State Coordinator of NAFDAC, Pharm. Kenneth Obukwelu, to the NSCDC State Command Headquarters, where he met with the State Commandant, Jibrin Idris.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that adulteration is a reoccurring activities for some dealers in the state, without recourse to its implications on health.
According to a press statement signed by SC Buhari Saad, Public Relations Officer of the Command, Pharm. Obukwelu stressed that tackling the proliferation of fake, substandard, and unwholesome drugs requires strong inter-agency cooperation.
The statement disclosed that no agency can successfully achieve its mandate without working closely with others, especially security institutions.
“Our biggest challenge remains the circulation of fake and adulterated products. To effectively fight drug imitation and safeguard public health, NAFDAC needs the strong backing of the NSCDC.
“No agency can operate in isolation. We must join forces to protect consumers and ensure only safe and regulated products reach the public,” he said.
He requested enhanced security coverage for NAFDAC’s field operations, particularly during inspection, enforcement, and surveillance activities, while commending the Corps for its continuous efforts in sustaining security across the state.
“We are ready to share intelligence and work closely with the Corps to eliminate the distribution of harmful and counterfeit products. This partnership is essential for securing the health and well-being of our people,” Obukwelu added.
In his response, NSCDC State Commandant, Jibrin Idris, assured NAFDAC of the Corps’ full cooperation in combating drug imitation and strengthening regulatory enforcement in Gombe.
He added, “Our doors are open 24/7. The NSCDC is always ready to support NAFDAC in all enforcement operations.
“Protecting the public from fake and dangerous products aligns with our mandate, and we will provide all necessary assistance to ensure safer communities.”
